AccuWeather.com

More Hurricane Facts & Features

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  What is the Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale?

  May 11, 2012; 8:28 AM ET

  The Saffir-Simpson Wind Scale is a categorical classification of hurricanes based on their wind speed, used by the U.S. government's National Hurricane Center.

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  Atlantic Category 5 Storms

  Apr 30, 2010; 9:44 AM ET

  To qualify as a Category 5 hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson hurricane intensity scale, maximum sustained winds must exceed 155 mph (135 kt).

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  Retired Hurricane Names

  Apr 30, 2010; 9:39 AM ET

  Hurricanes that have a severe impact on lives or the economy are remembered by generations after the devastation they caused, and some go into weather history.

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  Download Hurricane Tracking Maps

  Apr 30, 2010; 9:23 AM ET

  AccuWeather.com has created a number of specialty maps designed for tracking the progress of tropical storms and hurricanes. Use these maps in conjunction with our Hurricane Position graphic, as well as statements issued by the NHC with storm positions.

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  When and Where Do Hurricanes Occur?

  Apr 30, 2010; 9:09 AM ET

  Hurricanes (by whatever name) are by far most common in the Pacific Ocean, with the western Pacific being most active. In some years, the Philippines are struck by more than 20 tropical storms and typhoons.

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  What Are the Parts of a Hurricane?

  Apr 30, 2010; 8:30 AM ET

  Low pressure in the hurricane can act as a plunger, slightly pulling up the water level. However, the components that contribute to the greatest storm surge affect are the winds blowing to the left side of the storm and the topography of the land as the storm makes land fall.

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  How Do Storms Develop?

  Apr 30, 2010; 8:25 AM ET

  There are 5 stages in storm development.

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  When is Hurricane Season in the Atlantic?

  Apr 30, 2010; 8:14 AM ET

  Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June 1 to November 30.

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  Hurricane Preparation Checklists

  Apr 30, 2010; 8:00 AM ET

  Despite living along the coast, and even after major disasters such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and Hurricane Ike in 2008, a 2009 survey revealed that most residents are not prepared for a hurricane. The U.S. Government's National Hurricane Center advises the following actions for hurricane disaster preparation.